Critical Analysis of Nitramine Decomposition Data. Preliminary Comments on Autoacceleration and Autoinhibition in HMX and RDX Decomposition.
Abstract
This paper presents some preliminary comments on a literature review on topics related to autocatalysis in the thermal decomposition of HMX and RDX. An attempt is made to focus on true homogeneous chemical affects in autocatalysis; it is pointed out that it is necessary to distinguish between true chemical effects on the one hand and autoacceleration due to physical factors such as liquefaction on the other hand. The subject is divided into two general areas: (a) autocatalysis due to the non-volatile residue that is formed in HMX and RDX decomposition; and (b) autocatalysis due to more volatile reaction products such as HOCH(2)NHCOH, H(2)CO and nitrogen oxides. There does seem to be evidence indicating the existence of homogeneous chemical autocatalysis by the decomposition residue. With regard to true chemical autocatalysis by more volatile reaction products, a number of pieces of information seem to suggest that such autocatalysis operates, but there are also a few confusing notes. Some possible chemical mechanisms that might be involved are presented and discussed, and it is pointed out that even if such reactions are unimportant under low-pressure conditions, they may become more important under the higher pressures characteristic of combustion and explosion. Suggestions for future work are made, with emphasis on studies allowing unambiguous interpretation in terms of true chemical effects, uncomplicated by physical factors such as liquefication and thermal effects.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA146570
Entities
People
- M. A. Schroeder
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory